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Posted: March 23, 2009

First Solar Produces 1 Gigawatt of Clean Solar Electricity

(Nanowerk News) First Solar, Inc. has announced that it has produced 1 gigawatt (GW) of its advanced solar modules since beginning commercial production in early 2002.

It took the Company more than six years to produce its first 500 megawatts (MW) and eight months to produce its second, creating today’s 1GW total. By the end of this year, the Company has announced it will have the capacity to produce more than 1GW per year— the equivalent of an average-sized nuclear power plant.

“This volume allows us to rapidly reduce manufacturing costs, thereby furthering our mission of making solar power an affordable alternative to conventional energy sources,” said Bruce Sohn, First Solar president. “We appreciate the many contributions our associates have made in reaching this 1GW milestone and are grateful for all their hard work.”

First Solar began production in Perrysburg, Ohio, with a single manufacturing line and approximately 150 associates in 2002. By the end of 2009, the Company’s solar modules will come from 23 manufacturing lines on three continents and employing more than 4,000 associates. The Company currently has manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Germany and Malaysia and offices located throughout North America and Europe.

About First Solar

First Solar, Inc. manufactures solar modules with an advanced semiconductor technology and provides comprehensive PV solutions that significantly reduce solar electricity costs. By enabling clean, renewable electricity at competitive prices, First Solar provides an economic and environmentally responsible alternative to existing peaking fossil-fuel electric generation. First Solar PV power plants operate with no water, air emissions or waste stream. First Solar set the benchmark for environmentally responsible product life cycle management by introducing the industry's first comprehensive collection and recycling program for solar modules. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling, First Solar is focused on creating cost-effective renewable energy solutions that protect and enhance the environment.